Hockey Ad Network

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

The Johnstown Tomahawks announced today that forward Omar Mullan has been traded to the Wenatchee Wild in exchange for forward Tanner Barnes and other considerations.

Mullan, originally acquired via trade on Sept. 25, had scored 7 goals and 10 assists with 40 penalty minutes in 29 games with Johnstown this season. A three-year NAHL veteran and Robertson Cup winner, Mullan's junior eligibility will expire at the conclusion of the 2013-14 NAHL season.

Barnes, a 6'1” native of Burnsville, Minn., had scored 5 goals and 6 assists with 30 penalty minutes in 25 games with the Wild this season. Barnes also played in four games with the NAHL's Coulee Region Chill at the start of this season.

“This is a move that is the best interest of both parties,” explained Tomahawks general manager Rick Boyd, who said Mullan's veteran presence and leadership qualities will benefit his new team. “We felt we have such a strong group of leaders here already that allowed us to make a move.”

In Barnes, the Tomahawks acquire a two-way forward with speed and skill to help Johnstown in pursuit of a North Division title. During his two games against Johnstown at the War Memorial on Nov. 15-16, Barnes scored two goals and four assists against the Tomahawks.

“He's a player who already has some D-I interest, and we will have one more year of eligibility for him,” Boyd said of Barnes.

Johnstown also receives cash and a tender in the trade, bringing their total number of tenders for the 2014-15 season to 13. Tenders can be used to secure prospect commitments or can be traded to bolster the roster for a deep playoff run. The Tomahawks already have five tendered players signed for next season.

Boyd said the Tomahawks will continue to help Mullan seek an NCAA scholarship if possible.

“We couldn't be more pleased with the effort Omar brought to our team or the way he fit into our community. We wish him all the best.”